Table with embedded lazy susan

ABSTRACT

A table that includes a base portion, a compartment portion, a top portion, and a lazy susan embedded in the top portion. The compartment portion is coupled to the base portion. The top portion is coupled to the compartment portion. The lazy susan is embedded in the top portion. The lazy susan is configurable to be in a first position and a second position. The lazy susan is in a retracted position when in the first position. The lazy susan is in operational position when in the second position.

CLAIM OF PRIORITY/CLAIM OF BENEFIT

The present application claims priority to U.S. Provisional ApplicationNo. 61/946,437 titled “Table with Embedded Lazy Susan”, filed Feb. 28,2014, which is hereby expressly incorporated by reference herein.

BACKGROUND

1. Field

Various features relate to a table with an embedded lazy susan.

2. Background

A lazy susan is a rotating tray that is placed on a table to help in themoving of food around the table. Typically, a lazy susan has a circularshape. FIGS. 1A-1B illustrate a profile view and a plan view of anexample of a lazy susan. Specifically, FIG. 1A illustrates a profileview (e.g., side view) of a lazy susan 100. As shown in FIG. 1A, thelazy susan 100 includes a base portion 102, a bearing mechanism 104, anda top portion 106. The base portion 102 is coupled to the bearingmechanism 104. The bearing mechanism 104 is coupled to the top portion106. Typically, the base portion 102 is positioned on a table surfaceand remains fixed on the table surface. The bearing mechanism 104 isconfigured to allow the top portion 106 to rotate about the base portion102. The bearing mechanism 104 includes two components, a firstcomponent, and a second component (which will be further described inFIG. 2). The top portion 106 is configured so that items, objects, foodcan be placed on the top portion 106.

FIG. 1B illustrates a top view of the lazy susan 100. As shown in FIG.1B, the top portion 106 of the lazy susan 100 is configured to be ableto turn and/or pivot.

FIG. 2 illustrates an example of a bearing mechanism 200. In someimplementations, the bearing mechanism 200 is the bearing mechanism 104of FIG. 1A. As shown in FIG. 2, the bearing mechanism 200 includes afirst component 202 and a second component 204. The first component 202is coupled to the second component 204. The first component 202 mayrotate about the second component 204. Similarly, the second component202 may rotate about the first component 202. The first component 202 iscoupled to a base portion (e.g., base portion 102) of a lazy susan(e.g., lazy susan 100). The second component 204 is coupled to a topportion (e.g., top portion 106) of a lazy susan (e.g., lazy susan 100).

One of the drawbacks of lazy susans is that they are heavy andcumbersome. They take up a lot of space on a table and are not alwaysnecessary. In instances where lazy susans are not necessary, they haveto be removed from the table they are on. That can be difficult and timeconsuming. In addition, the constant moving of the lazy susan can causedamage (e.g., scratches to the table). Therefore, there is a need for animproved design for lazy susans.

SUMMARY

Various features relate to a table with an embedded lazy susan.

A first example provides a table that includes a base portion, acompartment portion, a top portion, and a lazy susan embedded in the topportion. The compartment portion is coupled to the base portion. The topportion is coupled to the compartment portion. The lazy susan isembedded in the top portion. The lazy susan is configurable to be in afirst position and a second position. The lazy susan is in a retractedposition when in the first position. The lazy susan is in operationalposition when in the second position.

DRAWINGS

Various features, nature and advantages may become apparent from thedetailed description set forth below when taken in conjunction with thedrawings in which like reference characters identify correspondinglythroughout.

FIG. 1A conceptually illustrates a side view of a lazy susan on a table.

FIG. 1B conceptually illustrates a top view of a lazy susan.

FIG. 2 conceptually illustrates a bearing mechanism that may be used ina lazy susan.

FIG. 3A conceptually illustrates a side view of a lazy susan embedded ina table, where the lazy susan is in an operational position.

FIG. 3B conceptually illustrates a side view of a lazy susan embedded ina table, where the lazy susan is in a retracted position.

FIG. 3C conceptually illustrates a top view of a lazy susan embedded ina table.

FIG. 4A conceptually illustrates a top view of a lazy susan.

FIG. 4B conceptually illustrates a profile view of a lazy susan.

FIG. 4C conceptually illustrates a bottom view of a lazy susan.

FIG. 5 conceptually illustrates an assembly side view of a liftingmechanism being coupled to a lazy susan.

FIG. 6 conceptually illustrates another assembly profile view of alifting mechanism being coupled to a lazy susan.

FIG. 7 conceptually illustrates a top view of a bearing device.

FIG. 8 conceptually illustrates a profile view of a bearing device.

FIG. 9 conceptually illustrates a profile view of a lazy susan embeddedin a table, where the lazy susan is in a retracted position.

FIG. 10 conceptually illustrates another assembly profile view of alifting mechanism being coupled to a lazy susan, where the liftingmechanism includes a gearing system.

FIG. 11 conceptually illustrates another assembly side view of a liftingmechanism being coupled to a lazy susan where the lifting mechanismincludes a wedge system.

FIG. 12A conceptually illustrates an angled view a lazy susan embeddedin a table where the lazy susan is in a retracted position.

FIG. 12B conceptually illustrates an angled view a lazy susan embeddedin a table, where the lazy susan is in an operational position.

FIG. 12C conceptually illustrates an angled view a lazy susan embeddedin a table, where a storage compartment of the lazy susan is shown.

FIG. 12D conceptually illustrates an angled view a table without a lazysusan.

FIG. 13 illustrates an exemplary bearing device.

FIG. 14 illustrates a table with an embedded lazy susan from a firstview.

FIG. 15 illustrates a table with an embedded lazy susan from a secondview.

FIG. 16 illustrates an assembly of a table with an embedded lazy susan.

FIG. 17 illustrates a sequence for operating a table with an embeddedlazy susan from a first view.

FIG. 18 illustrates a sequence for operating a table with an embeddedlazy susan from a second view.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

In the following description, specific details are given to provide athorough understanding of the various aspects of the disclosure.However, it will be understood by one of ordinary skill in the art thatthe aspects may be practiced without these specific details.

Overview

Some implementations provide a table that includes a base portion, acompartment portion coupled to the base portion, a top portion coupledto the compartment portion, and a lazy susan embedded in the topportion. The lazy susan is configurable to be in a first position and asecond position. The lazy susan is in a retracted position when in thefirst position. The lazy susan is in an operational position when in thesecond position.

In some implementations, the compartment portion is configured to storethe lazy susan, where the lazy susan is in a retracted portion. In someimplementations, the table further includes a bearing device coupled tothe lazy susan, where the bearing device is configured to allow the lazysusan to rotate. In some implementations, the table further includes alifting device coupled to the table. In some implementations, thelifting device is coupled to the lazy susan, and configured to move thelazy susan in a first direction (e.g., up, raise) and a second direction(e.g., down, lower). In some implementations, the table further includesa controller for controlling the lifting device. In someimplementations, the controller controls the lazy susan by controllingthe lifting device. In some implementations, the piston is a containerthat includes a gas and a spring. In some implementations, the liftingdevice includes a piston, a rod coupled to the piston, and a levercoupled to the rod. In some implementations, the lifting device furtherincludes a cable and a pulley. In some implementations, the tablefurther includes a bearing device coupled to the lazy susan, where thebearing device is configured to allow the lazy susan to rotate; and alifting device coupled to the base portion and the bearing device. Insome implementations, the lazy susan includes a storage compartment. Insome implementations, the lazy susan includes a locking mechanism. Insome implementations, the locking mechanism is configured to prevent thelazy susan from rotating when the lazy susan is positioned in theretracted position. In some implementations, the locking mechanism isconfigured to allow the lazy susan to rotate when the lazy susan is inan operational position. In some implementations, the locking mechanismincludes a slot. In some implementations, the locking mechanism includesa notch.

Exemplary Table Embedded Lazy Susan

FIGS. 3A-3B conceptually illustrate an embedded lazy susan in a table.Specifically, FIG. 3A illustrates a lazy susan 302 in a table 300, wherethe lazy susan 302 is in an operational position. As shown in FIG. 3A,the table 300 includes a table surface 310, a lower table portion 312, aside portion 314, a first notch 316, a second notch 318, a base portion320, and a leg portion 322 (e.g., leg). In some implementations, thetable surface 310 has an opening (not visible) that is configured to beoccupied by the lazy susan 300. In some implementations, the lower tableportion 312 and the side portion 314 provide (e.g., define) acompartment portion 315 in the table 300 to be occupied by the lazysusan 302. The base portion 320 and the leg portion 322 are configuredto provide structural support for the table 300. In someimplementations, there are multiple leg portions 322 (e.g., more thanone leg portion 322).

FIG. 3A also illustrates a lifting device 304 (e.g., lifting mechanism).The lifting device is a lifting means. In some implementations, thelifting device 304 is used to move (e.g., lift, raise, lower) the lazysusan 302 up or down, relative to the table 300. In someimplementations, the lifting device 304 is coupled to the table 300 andthe lazy susan 302. The lifting device 304 includes a piston 330, a rod332, a lever 334, a cable 336, and at least one pulley 338. In someimplementations, the piston 330 is an air cylinder. However, the piston330 may include other types of container that includes other types ofgas, liquid, or fluid. In some implementations, the piston 330 is acontainer that includes a compressed gas, liquid or fluid. In someimplementations, the piston 330 may also include a spring (not visible)inside the container that includes the gas, liquid, or fluid. The rod332 is coupled to the piston 330, and is configured to move relative tothe piston 330 (e.g., move up and/or down relative to the piston 330).In some implementations, how much the gas, liquid, or fluid iscompresses in the piston 330 will determine how the rod 332 movesrelative to the piston 330. The piston 330 may be coupled to a supportstructure 333. The support structure 333 may be coupled to the baseportion 320. In some implementations, the support structure 333 helpsensure that at least part of the piston 330 remains fixed in the baseportion 320.

The rod 332 is coupled to the lever 334. In some implementations, thelevel 334 is coupled to the base portion 320 such that the level 334 canrotate about a fixed portion of the level 334. In some implementations,applying a force on the lever 334 will apply a force on the rod 332,which may cause the rod 332 to move relative to the piston 330. In someimplementations, applying a force on the lever 334 will apply a force onthe rod 332, which may cause the piston 330 to move relative to the rod332. The movement of the piston 330, which is coupled to the lazy susan302, will cause the lazy susan 302 to move (e.g., move up or down). Insome implementations, the movement of the lazy susan 302 is relative tothe table 300. The lever 334 is coupled to a cable 336 (e.g., string).In some implementations, the cable 336 may be pulled in order apply aforce on the lever 334, which may subsequently move the piston 330. Insome implementations, one or more pulleys 338 may be coupled to thetable 300 and used to help guide the cable 336.

FIG. 3A illustrates that the lazy susan 302 includes a top portion 340,a side portion 342, a bottom portion 344, and a support portion 346. Thetop portion 340 is coupled to the side portion 342 and the supportportion 346. The side portion 342 may have a beveled edge. The sideportion 442 is coupled to the bottom portion 344. The support portion346 is coupled to the bottom portion 344. In some implementations, thesupport portion 346 is in the middle/center of the lazy susan 302. Insome implementations, the support portion 346 may include a cavity (notvisible). The cavity of the support portion 346 may be configured to beoccupied by the piston 330 of the lifting device 304 in someimplementations. In some implementations, the lazy susan 302 includes astorage compartment 348. The storage compartment 348 may be defined bythe top portion 340, the side portion 342 and/or the bottom portion 344.In some implementations, the lazy susan 302 may include several storagecompartments 348. The storage compartment 348 may be used to storevarious objects, items, and/or food. The bottom portion 344 alsoincludes a first slot 350 and a second slot 352. In someimplementations, the first slot 350 is configured to be coupled to thefirst notch 316. In some implementations, the second slot 352 isconfigured to be coupled to the second notch 318. In someimplementations, when either or both the first and second slots 350 &352 are coupled to the first and second notches 316 & 318, the lazysusan 302 is locked in and cannot be turned.

In some implementations, a bearing device (not visible) may be coupledto the lazy susan 302. The bearing device may be the bearing mechanism200 of FIG. 2 or something similar. Although not required, in someimplementations, the bearing device allows the lazy susan 302 to rotateand/or turn more easily in the table 300. In some implementations, thebearing device may be positioned in the support portion 346 and/orbottom portion 344. However, different implementations may position thebearing device differently. In some implementations, when a bearingdevice is used, the bearing device may be coupled to the piston 330 ofthe lifting device 304.

In some implementations, the lazy susan 302 is configured to be occupiedon the opening of the table surface 310 and/or the compartment portion315 of the table 300. As shown in FIG. 3A, the lazy susan 302 ispositioned to be above the table surface 310. In this position and/orconfiguration, the storage compartment 348 of the lazy susan 302 isaccessible. It should be noted that the lazy susan 302 may be havedifferent positions and/or configurations in and/or on the table 300.

FIG. 3B illustrates the lazy susan 302 in the table 300. Specifically,FIG. 3B illustrates the lazy susan 302 in a retracted position and/orconfiguration. When the lazy susan 302 is in the retracted positionand/or configuration, the lazy susan 302 occupies (e.g., completely orpartially) the compartment portion 315 of the table 300. In addition, asshown in FIG. 3B, the top portion 340 of the lazy susan 302 is aligned(e.g., flush) with the surface portion 310 of the table 300, in someimplementations. In some implementations, when the lazy susan 302 is inthe retracted position and/or configuration, the lazy susan 302 cannotturn. That is, the lazy susan 302 is locked into the table 300, in someimplementations. This may be accomplished by the first slot 350 beingcoupled to the first notch 316 and/or the second slot 352 being coupledto the second notch 320. Different implementations may use differentnumber of slots and/notches to lock the lazy susan 302 in the table 300.

FIG. 3C illustrates a top view of the lazy susan embedded in the table.As shown in FIG. 3C, the top portion 340 of the lazy susan 302 is in anopening of the surface portion 310 of the table 300. It should be notedthat the surface portion 310 of the table 300 may have different shapes,and is not limited to a circular surface portion. Similarly, the topportion of the lazy susan 302 may have a different shape than a circulartop portion.

Having described a lazy susan embedded in a table, a lazy susan and alifting device will be further described in detail, without the table inorder better illustrate how the lazy susan and the lifting device arecoupled together.

FIGS. 4A-4C conceptually illustrate lazy susan coupled to a liftingdevice. Specifically, FIG. 4A illustrates a top view of a lazy susan402. As shown in FIG. 4A, the lazy susan 402 includes a top portion 440.It should be noted that the top portion 440 of the lazy susan 402 mayhave a different shape than a circular top portion.

FIG. 4B illustrates a side view of the lazy susan 402 coupled to alifting device 404. As shown in FIG. 4B, the lazy susan 402 includes atop portion 440, a side portion 442, a bottom portion 444, and a supportportion 446. The top portion 440 is coupled to the side portion 442 andthe support portion 446. The side portion 442 is coupled to the bottomportion 444. The support portion 446 is coupled to the bottom portion444. In some implementations, the support portion 446 is in themiddle/center of the lazy susan 402. In some implementations, thesupport portion 446 includes a cavity 447. The cavity 447 of the supportportion 446 may be configured to be occupied by a piston (e.g., piston430) of the lifting device 404 in some implementations.

In some implementations, the lazy susan 402 includes a storagecompartment 448. The storage compartment 448 may be defined by the topportion 440, the side portion 442 and the bottom portion 444. In someimplementations, the lazy susan 402 may include several storagecompartments 448. The storage compartment 448 may be used to storevarious objects, items, and/or food. The bottom portion 444 alsoincludes a first slot 450, a second slot 452, a third slot 454, and afourth slot 456. Different implementations may have different number ofslots. In some implementations, the first slot 450 is configured to becoupled to a first notch of a table (e.g., first notch 316). In someimplementations, the second slot 452 is configured to be coupled to asecond notch of a table (e.g., second notch 318). In someimplementations, when either or both the first and second slots 450 &452 are coupled to the first and second notches (e.g., first and secondnotches 316 & 318), the lazy susan 402 is locked in and cannot beturned.

FIG. 4B also illustrates the lifting device 404 (e.g., liftingmechanism). In some implementations, the lifting device 404 is used tomove (e.g., lift) the lazy susan 402 up or down, relative to a table(e.g., table 300). In some implementations, the lifting device 404 iscoupled to the lazy susan 402. The lifting device 404 includes a piston430, a rod 432, a lever 434, a cable 436, and at least one pulley 438.In some implementations, the piston 430 is an air cylinder. However, thepiston 430 may include other types of container that includes othertypes of gas, liquid, or fluid. In some implementations, the piston 430is a container that includes a compressed gas, liquid or fluid. In someimplementations, the piston 430 may also include a spring (not visible)inside the container that includes the gas, liquid, or fluid. The rod432 is coupled to the piston 430, and is configured to move relative tothe piston 430 (e.g., move up and/or down relative to the piston 430).In some implementations, how much the gas, liquid, or fluid iscompresses in the piston 430 will determine how the rod 432 movesrelative to the piston 430.

The rod 432 is coupled to the lever 434. In some implementations,applying a force on the lever 434 will apply a force on the rod 432,which may cause the rod 432 to move relative to the piston 430. In someimplementations, applying a force on the lever 434 will apply a force onthe rod 432, which may cause the piston 430 to move relative to the rod432. The movement of the piston 430, which is coupled to the lazy susan402, will cause the lazy susan 402 to move (e.g., move up or down). Insome implementations, the movement of the lazy susan 402 is relative toa table (e.g., table 300). The lever 434 is coupled to a cable 436(e.g., string). In some implementations, the cable 436 may be pulled inorder apply a force on the lever 434, which may subsequently move thepiston 430. In some implementations, one or more pulleys 438 may becoupled to a table (e.g., table 300) and used to help guide the cable436.

FIG. 4C illustrates a bottom view of the lazy susan 402. As shown inFIG. 4C, the lazy susan 402 includes a bottom portion 444. The bottomportion 444 includes an opening 447, the first notch 450, and the secondnotch 452. The opening 447 may correspond to a cavity in the supportportion 446 of the lazy susan 402.

In some implementations, a lazy susan may include a bearing device. FIG.5 illustrates an example of a lazy susan 502 that includes a bearingdevice. As shown in FIG. 5, the lazy susan 502 includes a top portion540, a side portion 542, a bottom portion 544, a bearing device 545, anda support portion 546. The top portion 540 is coupled to the sideportion 542 and the support portion 546. The side portion 542 is coupledto the bottom portion 544. The support portion 546 is coupled to thebottom portion 544. In some implementations, the support portion 546 isin the middle/center of the lazy susan 502. In some implementations, thesupport portion 546 includes a cavity 547. The cavity 547 of the supportportion 546 may be configured to be occupied by a piston (e.g., piston530) of the lifting device 504 in some implementations.

The bearing device 545 may be the bearing mechanism 200 of FIG. 2 orsomething similar. Another example of a bearing device is described inFIGS. 7, 8, and 13. Although not required, in some implementations, thebearing device 545 allows the lazy susan 502 to rotate and/or turn moreeasily in a table (e.g., table 300). In some implementations, thebearing device 545 is positioned in the surface portion 510 and/orsupport portion 546. However, the bearing device 545 may be positionedin the support portion 646 and/or bottom portion 644. Differentimplementations may position the bearing device 545 differently. In someimplementations, when a bearing device 545 is used, the bearing device545 may be coupled to the piston 530 of the lifting device 504.

In some implementations, the lazy susan 502 includes a storagecompartment 548. The storage compartment 548 may be defined by the topportion 540, the side portion 542 and the bottom portion 544. In someimplementations, the lazy susan 502 may include several storagecompartments 548. The storage compartment 548 may be used to storevarious objects, items, and/or food. The bottom portion 544 alsoincludes a first slot 550 and a second slot 552. In someimplementations, the first slot 550 is configured to be coupled to afirst notch of a table (e.g., first notch 316). In some implementations,the second slot 552 is configured to be coupled to a second notch of atable (e.g., second notch 318). In some implementations, when either orboth the first and second slots 550 & 552 are coupled to the first andsecond notches (e.g., first and second notches 316 & 318), the lazysusan 502 is locked in and cannot be turned.

FIG. 6 illustrates another example of a lazy susan 602 that includes abearing device. As shown in FIG. 6, the lazy susan 602 includes a topportion 640, a side portion 642, a bottom portion 644, and a supportportion 646. The top portion 640 is coupled to the side portion 642 andthe support portion 646. The side portion 642 is coupled to the bottomportion 644. The support portion 646 is coupled to the bottom portion644. In some implementations, the support portion 646 is in themiddle/center of the lazy susan 602. In some implementations, thesupport portion 646 includes a cavity 647. The cavity 647 of the supportportion 646 may be configured to be occupied by a piston (e.g., piston630) of the lifting device 604 in some implementations.

FIG. 6 also illustrates a bearing device 670 coupled to a bearingsupport structure 660. The bearing support 660 is coupled to a piston630. In some implementations, the bearing support structure 660 and thebearing device 670 is part of the lifting device 604. The bearing device670 may be the bearing mechanism 200 of FIG. 2 or something similar.Another example of a bearing device is described in FIGS. 7 and 8.Although not required, in some implementations, the bearing device 670allows the lazy susan 602 to rotate and/or turn more easily in a table(e.g., table 300). In some implementations, the bearing device 670 maybe coupled to the bottom portion 544. Different implementations mayposition the bearing device 670 differently. In some implementations,the lazy susan 602 includes a storage compartment 648. The storagecompartment 648 may be defined by the top portion 640, the side portion642 and the bottom portion 644. In some implementations, the lazy susan602 may include several storage compartments 648. The storagecompartment 648 may be used to store various objects, items, and/orfood. The bottom portion 644 also includes a first slot 650 and a secondslot 652. In some implementations, the first slot 650 is configured tobe coupled to a first notch of a table (e.g., first notch 316). In someimplementations, the second slot 652 is configured to be coupled to asecond notch of a table (e.g., second notch 318). In someimplementations, when either or both the first and second slots 650 &652 are coupled to the first and second notches (e.g., first and secondnotches 316 & 318), the lazy susan 602 is locked in and cannot beturned.

FIG. 7 illustrates a top view of an exemplary bearing device 700 (e.g.,rotatable bearing device) that allows a lazy susan to rotate. As shownin FIG. 7, the bearing device 700 includes a first rotatable part 702(e.g., inner rotatable part), and a second rotatable part 704 (e.g.,outer rotatable part). The bearing device 700 also includes severalbearings (which are not visible) at an interface (e.g., boundary)between the first rotatable part 702 and the second rotatable part 704.In some implementations, the bearings help facilitate the rotation ofthe first rotatable part 702 and/or the second rotatable part 704. Insome implementations, the bearing device 700 of FIG. 7 may beimplemented in the bearing device of FIG. 6.

FIG. 8 illustrates a profile view (e.g., side view) of the bearingdevice of FIG. 7. As shown in FIG. 8, the bearing device 800 includes afirst rotatable part 802, a second rotatable part 804, a set of ballbearings 806, a first cavity 812 in the first rotatable part 802, and asecond cavity 814 in the second rotatable part 804. As shown in FIG. 8,the set of ball bearings 806 are positioned between the first rotatablepart 802 and the second rotatable part 804. Specifically, the set ofball bearings 806 are positioned in the first cavity 812 and the secondcavity 814. In some implementations, the set of ball bearings 806 may becovered with a material that reduces friction (e.g., oil) between theset of ball bearings 806 and the first and second rotatable parts 802and 804.

FIG. 9 illustrates the lazy susan 902 in the table 900. Specifically,FIG. 9 illustrates the lazy susan 902 in a retracted position and/orconfiguration. The lazy susan 902 includes the bearing support structure960 and the bearing device 970. The bearing device 970 is coupled to abottom portion of the lazy susan 902. When the lazy susan 902 is in theretracted position and/or configuration, the lazy susan 902 occupies(e.g., completely or partially) the compartment portion 915 of the table900. In addition, as shown in FIG. 9, the top portion 940 of the lazysusan 902 is aligned (e.g., flush) with the surface portion 910 of thetable 900, in some implementations. In some implementations, when thelazy susan 902 is in the retracted position and/or configuration, thelazy susan 902 cannot turn. That is, the lazy susan 902 is locked intothe table 900, in some implementations. This may be accomplished by thefirst slot 950 being coupled to the first notch 916 and/or the secondslot 952 being coupled to the second notch 920. Differentimplementations may use different number of slots and/notches to lockthe lazy susan 902 in the table 900.

FIG. 10 illustrates another example of a lazy susan 1002 that includes abearing device. As shown in FIG. 10, the lazy susan 1002 includes a topportion 1040, a side portion 1042, a bottom portion 1044, and a supportportion 1046. The top portion 1040 is coupled to the side portion 1042and the support portion 1046. The side portion 1042 is coupled to thebottom portion 1044. The support portion 1046 is coupled to the bottomportion 1044. In some implementations, the support portion 1046 is inthe middle/center of the lazy susan 1002. In some implementations, thesupport portion 10410 includes a cavity 1047. The cavity 1047 of thesupport portion 1046 may be configured to be occupied by a piston (e.g.,piston 1030) of the lifting device 1004 in some implementations. In someimplementations, the lifting device 1004 also includes a gearing system1032. The gearing system 1032 may include two or more gears (e.g., afirst big gear, a second small gear). In some implementations, thegearing system 1032 may include a crank that may turn a first gear,which would turn a second gear that is coupled to the piston 1030. Forexample, a small rotation of a first big gear may result in a bigrotation of the second small gear, which may move the piston up or down.

FIG. 10 also illustrates a bearing device 1070 coupled to a bearingsupport structure 10100. The bearing support 1060 is coupled to a piston1030. In some implementations, the bearing support structure 1060 andthe bearing device 1070 is part of the lifting device 1004. The bearingdevice 1070 may be the bearing mechanism 200 of FIG. 2 or somethingsimilar. Another example of a bearing device is described in FIGS. 7, 8,and/or 13. Although not required, in some implementations, the bearingdevice 1070 allows the lazy susan 1002 to rotate and/or turn more easilyin a table (e.g., table 300). In some implementations, the bearingdevice 1070 may be coupled to the bottom portion 544. Differentimplementations may position the bearing device 1070 differently. Insome implementations, the lazy susan 1002 includes a storage compartment1048. The storage compartment 1048 may be defined by the top portion1040, the side portion 1042 and the bottom portion 1044. In someimplementations, the lazy susan 1002 may include several storagecompartments 1048. The storage compartment 1048 may be used to storevarious objects, items, and/or food. The bottom portion 1044 alsoincludes a first slot 1050 and a second slot 1052. In someimplementations, the first slot 1050 is configured to be coupled to afirst notch of a table (e.g., first notch 310). In some implementations,the second slot 1052 is configured to be coupled to a second notch of atable (e.g., second notch 318). In some implementations, when either orboth the first and second slots 1050 & 1052 are coupled to the first andsecond notches (e.g., first and second notches 310 & 318), the lazysusan 1002 is locked in and cannot be turned.

FIG. 11 illustrates another example of a lazy susan 1102 that includes abearing device. As shown in FIG. 11, the lazy susan 1102 includes a topportion 1140, a side portion 1142, a bottom portion 1144, and a supportportion 1146. The top portion 1140 is coupled to the side portion 1142and the support portion 1146. The side portion 1142 is coupled to thebottom portion 1144. The support portion 1146 is coupled to the bottomportion 1144. In some implementations, the support portion 1146 is inthe middle/center of the lazy susan 1102. In some implementations, thesupport portion 11410 includes a cavity 1147. The cavity 1147 of thesupport portion 1146 may be configured to be occupied by a piston (e.g.,piston 1130) of the lifting device 1104 in some implementations. In someimplementations, the lifting device 1104 also includes a wedge system1132. The wedge system 1132 may include one or more wedges. In someimplementations, the wedge system 1132 may be moved laterally, which maycause the piston 1030 to move vertically.

FIG. 11 also illustrates a bearing device 1170 coupled to a bearingsupport structure 11100. The bearing support 1160 is coupled to a piston1130. In some implementations, the bearing support structure 1160 andthe bearing device 1170 is part of the lifting device 1104. The bearingdevice 1170 may be the bearing mechanism 200 of FIG. 2 or somethingsimilar. Another example of a bearing device is described in FIGS. 7, 8,and/or 13. Although not required, in some implementations, the bearingdevice 1170 allows the lazy susan 1102 to rotate and/or turn more easilyin a table (e.g., table 300). In some implementations, the bearingdevice 1170 may be coupled to the bottom portion 544. Differentimplementations may position the bearing device 1170 differently. Insome implementations, the lazy susan 1102 includes a storage compartment1148. The storage compartment 1148 may be defined by the top portion1140, the side portion 1142 and the bottom portion 1144. In someimplementations, the lazy susan 1102 may include several storagecompartments 1148. The storage compartment 1148 may be used to storevarious objects, items, and/or food. The bottom portion 1144 alsoincludes a first slot 1150 and a second slot 1152. In someimplementations, the first slot 1150 is configured to be coupled to afirst notch of a table (e.g., first notch 310). In some implementations,the second slot 1152 is configured to be coupled to a second notch of atable (e.g., second notch 318). In some implementations, when either orboth the first and second slots 1150 & 1152 are coupled to the first andsecond notches (e.g., first and second notches 310 & 318), the lazysusan 1102 is locked in and cannot be turned.

FIGS. 12A-12D illustrates table with different configuration of a lazysusan. As shown in FIG. 12A, a top portion 1240 the lazy susan 1202 isaligned (e.g., flush) to a surface portion 1210 of a table 1200. In someimplementations, when the top portion 1240 is aligned with the surfaceportion 1210, the lazy susan 1202 is locked in the table 1200.

FIG. 12B illustrates the lazy susan 1202 being slightly raised above thesurface portion 1210 of the table 1200. In some implementations, whenthe lazy susan 1202 is in this configuration and/or position, the lazysusan 1202 may turn and rotate in/on the table 1200.

FIG. 12C illustrates the lazy susan 1202 being substantially raisedabove the surface portion 1210 of the table 1200. In someimplementations, when the lazy susan 1202 is in this configurationand/or position, a storage compartment 1248 of the lazy susan 1202 isaccessible and/or exposed. In this configuration and/or position, thelazy susan 1202 may also turn and rotate in/on the table 1200.

FIG. 12D illustrates a part of the table after the lazy susan 1202 hasbeen removed. As shown in FIG. 12D, the table 1200 includes a surfaceportion 1210, a lower portion 1212, a side portion 1214, and a firstnotch 1216. The lower portion 1212 includes an opening 1260. The opening1260 is configured to allow a lifting device to pass through. Forexample, the opening 1260 is configured to allow a piston of a liftingdevice to pass through. The table 1200 includes a compartment portion1215 that is defined by the lower portion 1215 and the side portion 1214in some implementations.

FIG. 13 illustrates a view of an exemplary bearing device 1300 (e.g.,rotatable bearing device) that allows a lazy susan to rotate. As shownin FIG. 13, the bearing device 1300 includes a first rotatable part 1302(e.g., inner rotatable part), and a second rotatable part 1304 (e.g.,outer rotatable part). The bearing device 1300 also includes severalbearings (which are not visible) at an interface (e.g., boundary)between the first rotatable part 1302 and the second rotatable part1304. In some implementations, the bearings help facilitate the rotationof the first rotatable part 1302 and/or the second rotatable part 1304.In some implementations, the bearing device 1300 of FIG. 13 may beimplemented in the bearing device of FIG. 6, or any other bearing devicedescribed in the present application. Different implementations mayprovide a bearing device with different shapes, sizes and designs. Forinstances, the bearing device may not be hollow in some implementations.The bearing device 1300 may be coupled to a lazy susan, a top portion, alifting device (e.g., piston), and/or any other portion of a table.

Exemplary Table With Embedded Lazy Susan

FIG. 14 illustrate a more detailed example of a table that includes anembedded lazy susan. Specifically, FIG. 14 illustrates a table 1400 thatincludes a lazy susan 1402, a top portion 1410, a compartment portion1412, a base portion 1420, and at least one leg portion 1422. The lazysusan 1402 is similar to other lazy susan (e.g., lazy susan 302, 502,602, 902) described in the present disclosure. The lazy susan 1402 isembedded in the table 1400. The lazy susan 1402 is at least partiallyembedded in the top portion 1410. The top portion 1410 may include thesurface of the table that food and/or items are put on. The top portion1410 includes a cavity. The cavity is where the lazy susans 1402 islocated in.

The compartment portion 1412 is coupled to the top portion 1402. Thecompartment portion 1412 may includes several compartments portions,including a base compartment, at least one side compartment. Thecompartment portion 1412 may be defined portions of the top portion1410. The compartment portion 1412 may be configured to store and/orreceive the lazy susan 1402 in a first position (e.g., retractedposition).

The compartment portion 1412 is coupled to the base portion 1420. Thecompartment portion 1412 and/or the base portion 1420 may be an areaand/or portion of the table 1400 that includes a lifting mechanism (notshown), such as a piston. The base portion 1420 is coupled to at leastone leg 1422. In some implementations, the leg 1422 may be optional.Thus, the table 1400 may be supported by the base portion 1420, whichacts a leg for the table 1400.

FIG. 15 illustrates the table 1400 from a different angle. The table1400 includes the lazy susan 1402, the top portion 1410, the compartmentportion 1412, the base portion 1420, and at least one leg 1422. Thetable 1400 also includes a controller 1500 and a connection 1502. Thecontroller 1500 is a lazy susan controller configured to raise and lowerthe lazy susan. More specifically, the controller 1500 is a liftingmeans controller configured to control a lifting device (not shown), asdescribed in the present disclosure. By controlling the lifting device,the controller 1500 is controlling the raising and lowering of the lazysusan 1402. Different implementations may use different controller 1500.In some implementations, the controller 1500 may include an electronicdevice with circuitry and/or an integrated circuit device (IC device).In some implementations, the controller 1500 may be a mechanicalcontroller (e.g., crank).

The connection 1502 is coupled to the controller 1500 and a liftingdevice (not shown), as described in the present disclosure. In someimplementations, the connection 1502 may be at least one wire configuredto provide at least one electrical path for at least one electricalsignal to the lifting device. In some implementations, the connection1502 may be at least one wire (e.g., string) that can be pulled and/orpushed.

Different implementations may use different lifting devices. Asmentioned above, the lifting device (e.g., lifting means) may be apiston. In some implementations, the lifting device may be an actuator(e.g., hydraulic actuator, pneumatic actuator, electric actuator,mechanical actuator). The lifting device may include one or more motors.In some implementations, the use of a lifting device (as described inthe present disclosure) to raise and lower a lazy susan embedded in atable is similar and/or identical to how a pneumatic chair is raisedand/or lowered.

FIG. 16 illustrates an assembly of the table 1400. As shown in FIG. 16,the table 1400 includes the lazy susan 1402, the top portion 1410, thecompartment portion 1412, the base portion 1420, at least one leg 1422,the controller 1500, and a lifting device 1600. The lifting device 1600may be any of the lifting devices (e.g., piston) described in thepresent disclosure. The lifting device 1600 may be positioned in thebase 1420 and/or the compartment portion 1412.

The table 1400 may also include a bearing device 1602. The bearingdevice 1602 may be any of the bearing devices described in the presentdisclosure. The lifting device 1600 may be coupled to the lazy susan1402 through at least the bearing device 1602. In some implementations,the bearing device 1602 is configured to allow the lazy susan 1402 torotate relative to the lifting device 1600, the top portion, 1410, thecompartment portion 1412, and/or the base portion 1420. The bearingdevice 1602 may be positioned in the table 1400 differently in someimplementations. The bearing device 1602 may be optional. The liftingdevice 1600 may be coupled to the lazy susan 1402 without coupling tothe bearing device 1602.

Exemplary Sequence for Operating Table with Embedded Lazy Susan

FIG. 17 illustrates an exemplary sequence for raising and/or lowering alazy susan embedded in a table. The sequence of FIG. 17 will bedescribed with respect to the operation of table 1400. However, thesequence shown may be applicable to any of the tables and/or lazy susansdescribed in the present disclosure.

Stage 1 illustrates a state of the table 1400 during a first position.During a first position (e.g., retracted position), the lazy susan 1402is positioned in the compartment portion 1412. In some implementations,the surface of the lazy susan 1402 is positioned substantially flushwith the surface of the top portion.

Stage 2 illustrates a state of the table 1400 after the lazy susan 1402has been slightly raised. As mentioned above, the lazy susan 1402 may beraised by activating a lifting device (e.g., lifting device 1600), whichraises the lazy susan 1402. A controller (e.g., controller 1500) may beused to activate the lifting device. As the lazy susan 1402 is raised,the lazy susan 1402 is positioned at least partially outside of thecompartment portion 1412.

Stage 3 illustrates a state of the table 1400 after the lazy susan 1402has fully been raised. In some implementations, when the lazy susan 1402has been fully raised, a storage compartment 1700 of the lazy susan 1402is exposed and/or accessible. The storage compartment 1700 may be any ofthe storage compartment described in the present disclose. The storagecompartment 1700 may be used to storage various objects and/or items,such as condiments, utensils. Stage 3 may illustrate the lazy susan 1402in an operational position. Stage 3 may illustrate the lazy susan 1402that is at least partially outside of the compartment portion 1412 ofthe table 1400.

In some implementations, to lower the lazy susan 1402 so that the lazysusan 1402 is positioned at least partially inside the compartmentportion 1412, the controller (e.g., controller 1500) is activated and/orused, and a force (e.g., mechanical force) is used to push down the lazysusan 1402. For example, as the controller is pushed, a force applied bya person on the lazy susan 1402 may lower the lazy susan 1402 into thecompartment portion 1412 of the table 1400. In some implementations, aforce is not necessary. For example, the lifting device may beconfigured to lower the lazy susan 1402 without a force applied by aperson on the lazy susan.

illustrate a more detailed example of a table that includes an embeddedlazy susan. Specifically, FIG. 14 illustrates a table 1400 that includesa lazy susan 1402, a top portion 1410, a compartment portion 1412, abase portion 1420, and at least one leg portion 1422. The lazy susan1402 is similar to other lazy susan (e.g., lazy susan 302, 502, 602,902) described in the present disclosure. The lazy susan 1402 isembedded in the table 1400. The lazy susan 1402 is at least partiallyembedded in the top portion 1410. The top portion 1410 may include thesurface of the table that food and/or items are put on. The top portion1410 includes a cavity. The cavity is where the lazy susans 1402 islocated in.

FIG. 18 illustrates an exemplary sequence for raising and/or lowering alazy susan embedded in a table from another angle and/or view. Thesequence of FIG. 18 will be described with respect to the operation oftable 1400. However, the sequence shown may be applicable to any of thetables and/or lazy susans described in the present disclosure.

Stage 1 illustrates a state of the table 1400 during a first position.During a first position (e.g., retracted position), the lazy susan 1402is positioned in the compartment portion 1412. In some implementations,the surface of the lazy susan 1402 is positioned substantially flushwith the surface of the top portion.

Stage 2 illustrates a state of the table 1400 after the lazy susan 1402has been slightly raised. As mentioned above, the lazy susan 1402 may beraised by activating the lifting device 1600, which raises the lazysusan 1402. The controller 1500 may be used to activate the liftingdevice 1600. As the lazy susan 1402 is raised, the lazy susan 1402 ispositioned at least partially outside of the compartment portion 1412.

Stage 3 illustrates a state of the table 1400 after the lazy susan 1402has fully been raised. In some implementations, when the lazy susan 1402has been fully raised, the storage compartment 1700 of the lazy susan1402 is exposed and/or accessible. The storage compartment 1700 may beany of the storage compartment described in the present disclose. Thestorage compartment 1700 may be used to storage various objects and/oritems, such as condiments, utensils. Stage 3 may illustrate the lazysusan 1402 in an operational position. Stage 3 may illustrate the lazysusan 1402 that is at least partially outside of the compartment portion1412 of the table 1400.

In some implementations, to lower the lazy susan 1402 so that the lazysusan 1402 is positioned at least partially inside the compartmentportion 1412, the controller 1500 is activated and/or used, and a force(e.g., mechanical force) is used to push down the lazy susan 1402. Forexample, as the controller 1500 is pushed, a force applied by a personon the lazy susan 1402 may lower the lazy susan 1402 into thecompartment portion 1412 of the table 1400. In some implementations, aforce is not necessary. For example, the lifting device may beconfigured to lower the lazy susan 1402 without a force applied by aperson on the lazy susan.

One or more of the elements, steps, features, and/or functionsillustrated in FIGS. 3A-3C, 4A-4C, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12A-12D, 13,14, 15, 16, 17 and/or 18 may be rearranged and/or combined into a singlecomponent, step, feature or function or embodied in several components,steps, or functions. Additional elements, components, steps, and/orfunctions may also be added without departing from the invention.

The word “exemplary” is used herein to mean “serving as an example,instance, or illustration.” Any implementation or aspect describedherein as “exemplary” is not necessarily to be construed as preferred oradvantageous over other aspects of the disclosure. Likewise, the term“aspects” does not require that all aspects of the disclosure includethe discussed feature, advantage or mode of operation. The term“coupled” is used herein to refer to the direct or indirect couplingbetween two objects. For example, if object A physically touches objectB, and object B touches object C, then objects A and C may still beconsidered coupled to one another—even if they do not directlyphysically touch each other.

The various features of the invention described herein can beimplemented in different systems without departing from the invention.It should be noted that the foregoing aspects of the disclosure aremerely examples and are not to be construed as limiting the invention.The description of the aspects of the present disclosure is intended tobe illustrative, and not to limit the scope of the claims. As such, thepresent teachings can be readily applied to other types of apparatusesand many alternatives, modifications, and variations will be apparent tothose skilled in the art.

What is claimed is:
 1. A table comprising: a base portion; a compartmentportion coupled to the base portion; a top portion coupled to thecompartment portion, and a lazy susan embedded in the top portion, thelazy susan is configurable to be in a first position and a secondposition, the lazy susan being in a retracted position when in the firstposition, the lazy susan being in operational position when in thesecond position.
 2. The table of claim 1, wherein the compartmentportion is configured to store the lazy susan, wherein the lazy susan isin a retracted portion.
 3. The table of claim 1 further comprises abearing device coupled to the lazy susan, wherein the bearing device isconfigured to allow the lazy susan to rotate.
 4. The table of claim 1further comprising a lifting device coupled to the table.
 5. The tableof claim 4, wherein the lifting device is coupled to the lazy susan, andconfigured to move the lazy susan in a first direction and a seconddirection.
 6. The table of claim 4, further comprising a controller forcontrolling the lifting device.
 7. The table of claim 6, wherein thecontroller controls the lazy susan by controlling the lifting device. 8.The table of claim 4, wherein the piston is a container that includes agas and a spring.
 9. The table of claim 4, wherein the lifting devicecomprises: a piston; a rod coupled to the piston; and a lever coupled tothe rod.
 10. The table of claim 9, wherein the lifting device furtherincludes a cable and a pulley.
 11. The table of claim 1 furthercomprises: a bearing device coupled to the lazy susan, wherein thebearing device is configured to allow the lazy susan to rotate; and alifting device coupled to the base portion and the bearing device. 12.The table of claim 1, wherein the lazy susan includes a storagecompartment.
 13. The table of claim 1, wherein the lazy susan includes alocking mechanism.
 14. The table of claim 13, wherein the lockingmechanism is configured to prevent the lazy susan from rotating when thelazy susan is positioned in the retracted position.
 15. The table ofclaim 13, wherein the locking mechanism is configured to allow the lazysusan to rotate when the lazy susan is in an operational position. 16.The table of claim 13, wherein the locking mechanism includes a slot.17. The table of claim 13, wherein the locking mechanism includes anotch.